Chinese newspaper lists 4 reasons to believe China will beat Vietnam in U23 Asian Cup semifinal

First, the publication highlights the solid "double-decker bus" defense constructed by coach Antonio Puche, expected to neutralize Vietnam's fast-paced and technical style of play.

Under Puche's leadership, China have demonstrated remarkable stability, recording 15 wins, 7 draws and only 2 losses in 24 matches across all competitions. The team's 5-3-2 formation is cited as their greatest asset, maintaining an extremely tight defensive structure. The average distance between defenders is a mere 13.6 m, compressing to just 6.8 m when shifting in the center.

This compactness effectively nullified Uzbekistan's short-passing plays in the quarterfinals and is expected to force opponents like Vietnam to rely on long-range shots.

Chinese players celebrate after defeating Uzbekistan on penalties in the quarterfinals of the U23 Asian Cup, at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Jan. 17, 2026. Photo by AFC

Secondly, 163 points to the spectacular form of goalkeeper Li Hao as a decisive factor. Li has conceded only a single goal throughout the entire campaign, from qualifiers through to the semifinals, in the 2-1 win against Timor Leste.

Currently leading the tournament with 24 saves, double that of Vietnam's Tran Trung Kien, Li's ability to deny clear-cut chances puts immense pressure on Vietnam attackers. If he continues to prevent early goals, analysts believe China's chances of victory would significantly increase.

Thirdly, the newspaper emphasizes the physical difference between the two sides. China boasts an average height of nearly 1.82 m compared to Vietnam's 1.77 m, with a trio of tall central defenders: Liu Haofan (1.85 m), Peng Xiao (1.85 m) and Umidjan Yusup (1.84 m). This physical advantage significantly limits Vietnam’s aerial threats and complicates their ability to attack from the flanks or capitalize on set pieces.

Finally, 163 praises the team's mentality. Backed by an unbeaten streak and the historic achievement of reaching their first-ever semifinal at an Asian tournament, the squad are playing with high confidence and reduced fear of failure.

While acknowledging a 0-1 friendly loss to Vietnam in the Panda Cup last November, the article notes that key players like Li Hao and midfielder Wang Yudong were absent then.

With the full squad now available and the momentum of their quarterfinal victory over Uzbekistan, the team are described as eager to continue their historic run with a relaxed spirit. They are ready to give their all to keep enjoying the atmosphere of victory and glory.

The U23 Asian Cup seminal between Vietnam and China will start at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, Hanoi time, and be reported live on VnExpress International.